Search form

Search form

A number of politicians spoke before members of the hotel industry during AH&LA's Legislative Action Summit this week to offer their opinions regarding government issues that are affecting the lodging and travel industries. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said she supports the JOLT Act, which could create 1 million jobs by 2020 through an influx of tourists. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano highlighted efforts by the TSA to ease travel for consumers through risk-based screening and the Global Entry program.

Related Summaries

AH&LA and the National Restaurant Association have joined forces to talk with legislators about issues vital to the hospitality industry. AH&LA's Legislative Summit and the NRA's Public Affairs Conference will tackle issues such as reforming the Affordable Care Act, safeguarding the franchise model and boosting jobs growth in the industry. "This year's Legislative Action Summit promises to be a dynamic opportunity that allows hoteliers and employees to speak directly to lawmakers, tell our story of success and urge them to support smart policies that foster economic development," said Katherine Lugar, AH&LA's president and CEO.

The Royal Bank of Scotland, one of the lenders of NH Hoteles, has reportedly rejected a possible $375 million investment deal between the hotel group and Hospitality Properties Trust. HPT and NH Hoteles are expected to re-enter discussions to seek alternatives or possible modifications to the original agreement.

Wynn Resorts posted net income of $203 million in the first quarter, up about 5% from $140.6 million the previous year. Revenue in its Las Vegas operations climbed 6.6%, to $386.6 million, and contributed to about a 5% increase in total revenue to $1.38 billion. Revenue per available room was up 6%, while occupancy grew to 82.9% from 79.3% a year ago.

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano spoke to hoteliers during AH&LA's Legislative Action Summit to seek the lodging industry's support for an immigration bill being pushed in the Senate. "The discussions underway right now on comprehensive immigration reform will have a bearing on your industry and on our work at the department. ... We think the legislation is a major step forward," Napolitano said.

The reintroduction of the JOLT (Jobs Originated through Launching Travel) Act in the House of Representatives has been met with approval from travel groups including the U.S. Travel Association and AH&LA. The bill seeks the growth of foreign travel into the U.S. -- and its benefits on the economy -- by expanding the country's Visa Waiver Program and easing visa-application procedures. "Increasing travel to the United States is the most effective form of economic stimulus -- creating millions of new American jobs, adding billions to the U.S. economy, and benefitting every community around the country. We need to pass the JOLT Act this Congress," said Marlene Colucci, AH&LA's executive vice president for public policy.